Off-the-shelf Applications
vs.Custom Software Applications
Using a 3rd party application saves you big money in the
beginning; however you are taking unforeseen risks due to
the rapidly changing landscape of Internet connections, changing
browser versions-standards and Internet security.
3rd party job board applications are not a good choice for
the small to mid-level enterprise web client; rather they
are more of a plug-n-play application for the individual or
small-time website operator.
We experienced a web client who had built his online store
a few years ago using Miva Merchant, a well-respected 3rd
party ecommerce software.
He had invested thousand of dollars over time for additions,
custom skinning and bolt-on modules.
When this client was forced to move web hosting he found
that the old version of Miva Merchant he was using was no
longer supported. A hosting move required using the CURRENT
version of Miva Merchant. This meant having to reintegrate
ALL the custom additions he had made, costing him thousands
of dollars.
| Features |
Custom Option |
3rd Party Option |
| Customization Possibility/Feature
Enhancement |
In a custom option, you can have any level of customization. |
In 3rd party application, you have to work within the
existing framework. Any future customizations must be
within this framework boundary, hence unforeseen limitations. |
| Version Upgrades |
There is NO problem of version Upgrades as you control
and adhere to the original code base. |
When a version upgrades, you may lose customizations
performed as there is the possibility of changes in the
code structure, class’s methods and database. |
| Scalability/Security |
In custom option you can add more layers for security
and performance tuning when application grows making it
easier to handle a large user base when required. |
You are constrained by the database and coding structure
of any 3rd party application, having certain limitation
for scalability. This is one of many unforeseen* risk
factors. |
| Cost |
Initially the cost is higher, but future enhancements
and customizations costs nominal. |
Initially less expensive but for any custom feature
you will need to hire a professional from the respective
3rd party solution’s partner program which can be
costly. |
| Source Code Availability |
You are provided with the full source code of the application. |
In 3rd party application, you may NOT have the source
code of application or in some cases you must pay an additional
cost. |
| Features Availability |
Custom features can be available (developed) whenever
required. |
You can add features when released but will require
a programmer with experience in your particular application. |
About the Author
Rick Vidallon is President of Visionefx, a Web
design company based in Virginia Beach, Va. They provide
custom
databse applications services to national companies as well
as small to medium businesses throughout the United States.
Rick can be reached at (757) 619-6456 or rick@visionefx.net. |
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